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Forgotten Spaces: Visions of Utopia by Cabinet of Curiosity

27 May, 2010 | By Cabinet of Curiosity

Visions of Utopia by Cabinet of Curiosity

[LAMBETH] Revival of the old Orangery in Clapham

The late 18th century Clapham Orangery has stood idle for decades. Its Portland stone structure is physically robust, but much of it is dilapidated and its adjoining plot of land, overseen by Lambeth as managed wilderness, is neglected.

The scheme by Cabinet of Curiosity respects the structure, but rehabilitates it as a ‘larder of thought’ that combines urban agriculture with good ideas. Drawing on its horticultural associations, it sees the site as a ‘delicious revolution’ where slow food and localism reduces our carbon footprint and promotes enjoyment of seasonal pleasures.

The proposal replaces the neglected stone, concrete and scrublands with a vibrant café, piazza and gardens. Diverse plots radiating across a paved and turfed garden will allow for the cultivation of food for the café and the local community. And into the classical structure itself they will insert a contemporary glass/wood louvered cube that will interact with the piazza to create an event space.

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